Articulating faucet

ABSTRACT

A faucet having a base, an articulable spout, and a valve operable in an open position and a closed position to control the flow of water to the outlet. The base is configured to mount to a support. The spout includes an outlet for dispensing water and a plurality of segments operatively coupled together sequentially, with a first segment of the plurality of segments rotatably coupled to the base. The plurality of segments are rotatable relative to one another and to the base to move the outlet between a first position, in which the valve is in the closed position, and a second position, in which the valve is in the open position.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 62/680,282, filed on Jun. 4, 2018. The foregoingapplication is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present application relates generally to the field of faucets. Morespecifically, the present application relates to faucets that includespouts having segments that articulate to change the shape of the spoutand to reposition an outlet of the faucet.

SUMMARY

At least one embodiment of the application relates to a faucet thatincludes a base, an articulable spout, and a valve, which is operable inan open position and a closed position to control the flow of water tothe outlet. The base is configured to mount to a support. The spoutincludes an outlet for dispensing water and a plurality of segmentsoperatively coupled together sequentially, with a first segment of theplurality of segments rotatably coupled to the base. The plurality ofsegments are rotatable relative to one another and to the base to movethe outlet between a first position, in which the valve is in the closedposition, and a second position, in which the valve is in the openposition.

At least one embodiment of the application relates to a faucet thatincludes a stationary base and a spout. The base is stationary and has afirst end, which is mountable to a support. The spout is operativelycoupled to a second end of the base, the spout has an outlet fordispensing water and the spout is articulable relative to the basebetween a first position and a second position. The base and the spouttogether may have a substantially cylindrical shape in the firstposition, and the base and the spout may together have a substantiallyinverted J-shape in the second position.

At least one embodiment of the application relates to a faucet thatincludes a base and a spout. The base is configured to extend along alongitudinal axis and the base includes a first (e.g., bottom) end thatis configured to mount to a support. The spout includes a first segmentmovably coupled to a second (e.g., top) end of the base, a last segmenthaving an outlet for dispensing water, and a plurality of interveningsegments provided between the first segment and the last segment. Eachof the plurality of intervening segments is movable relative to thefirst segment to move the last segment between a first position, inwhich each of the plurality of intervening segments is aligned along thelongitudinal axis, and a second position, in which each of the pluralityof intervening segments is aligned along an arcuate axis that intersectsthe longitudinal axis.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of anarticulating faucet in a first position, according to this application.

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the faucet shown in FIG. 1 in asecond position.

FIG. 3 is a side schematic view of the faucet shown in FIG. 2 in thesecond position with a detachable spray head.

FIG. 4 is a side view of the faucet shown in FIG. 1 in the firstposition.

FIG. 5 is a side view of the faucet shown in FIG. 4 moving from thefirst position toward the second position.

FIG. 6 is a side view of the faucet shown in FIG. 4 moving from thefirst position toward the second position.

FIG. 7 is a side view of the faucet shown in FIG. 4 moving from thefirst position toward the second position.

FIG. 8 is a side view of the faucet shown in FIG. 4 moving from thefirst position toward the second position.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of anarticulating faucet in a first position.

FIG. 10 is a side perspective view of the faucet shown in FIG. 9 in asecond position.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of anarticulating faucet and mechanical actuator.

FIG. 12 is a detail view of a portion of the faucet and mechanicalactuator shown in FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the faucet and mechanical actuatorshown in FIG. 11.

FIG. 14 is another perspective view of the faucet and mechanicalactuator shown in FIG. 11.

FIG. 15 is a detail view of a portion of the faucet and mechanicalactuator shown in FIG. 13.

FIG. 16 is an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a segment ofan articulating faucet, according to this application.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the segment shown in FIG. 16.

FIG. 18 is a partially exploded view of two segments of an articulatingfaucet.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of two segments of an articulating faucetwith the outer shells removed for clarity.

FIG. 20 is another perspective view of the two segments shown in FIG.19.

FIG. 21 is another perspective view of the two segments shown in FIG.20.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of three segments of an articulatingfaucet without outer shells and including a water supply tube passingthrough the segments.

FIG. 23 is a partially exploded view of the three segments and watersupply tube shown in FIG. 22.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of two segments of an articulating faucetwith the outer shells shown in a first relative rotational position.

FIG. 25 is another perspective view of two segments shown in FIG. 24 ina second relative rotational position.

FIG. 26 is another perspective view of two segments shown in FIG. 24 ina third relative rotational position.

FIG. 27 is another perspective view of two segments shown in FIG. 24 ina fourth relative rotational position.

FIG. 28 is another perspective view of two segments shown in FIG. 24 ina fifth relative rotational position.

FIG. 29 is a graph showing an exemplary sequence of the segments for afaucet.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a flexible coupling for use in thearticulating faucets of this application.

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of anarticulating faucet.

FIG. 32 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of anarticulating faucet.

FIG. 33 is another perspective view of the articulating faucet shown inFIG. 32.

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a flexible coupling for use in thearticulating faucets of this application.

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a flexible coupling for use in thearticulating faucets of this application.

FIG. 36 is a perspective view of a flexible coupling for use in thearticulating faucets of this application.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring generally to the figures, disclosed herein are faucets havingarticulating spouts. That is, each spout includes one or more segments(e.g., parts, members, elements, etc.) that can articulate relative to abase and/or other segments of the spout. The articulating faucets cancontrol the operation (e.g., water flow) of the faucet based onarticulation of part of the faucet body, such as a spout of the faucet,relative to another part of the faucet body, such as a base of thefaucet. Traditional faucets rely on one or more handles or sensors tocontrol such operation of the faucet.

By way of example, at least one embodiment disclosed herein relates to afaucet having a base mountable to a support, a spout that articulatesrelative to the base, and a valve operable in an open position and aclosed position to control the flow of water to an outlet of the spoutthrough which water is dispensed. The spout can include a plurality ofsegments operatively coupled together sequentially, with a first segmentrotatably coupled to the base. The remaining segments are rotatablerelative to the first segment and the base to move the outlet between afirst position, in which the valve is in the closed position, and asecond position, in which the valve is in the open position.

The plurality of segments can rotate sequentially starting with thefirst segment and ending with an end segment of the plurality ofsegments. The end segment can include the outlet. Alternatively, theplurality of segments can rotate randomly or can rotate substantiallysimultaneously to move the outlet between the first and the secondpositions.

Each segment can be rotated by an electro-mechanical actuator, such as amotor and/or a cable operatively coupled to the motor and to theassociated segment so that the motor can rotate the associated segmentthrough the cable. The actuator can include a plurality of cablesoperatively coupled to the motor, with at least one cable associatedwith each segment to rotate the associated segment through theassociated cable(s). As another example, each segment can be rotated bya force created by the flow of water through the faucet (e.g., to theoutlet).

As another example, each pair of adjacent segments can be rotatablycoupled through a universal joint, a flexible joint, or any othersuitable coupling.

The plurality of segments can form a substantially cylindrical shapedspout when the outlet is in the first position and can form anon-cylindrical shaped spout when the outlet is in the second position.For example, the segments can form an arcuate shaped spout when thespout is in the second position such that the base and the spouttogether have a substantially inverted J-shape, and the segments canform a shape that is different than the arcuate shape spout in the firstposition.

Also for example, at least one embodiment disclosed herein relates to afaucet having a stationary base and a spout. The stationary base has afirst end, which is mountable to a support. The spout is operativelycoupled to a second end of the base, the spout has an outlet fordispensing water, and the spout is articulable relative to the basebetween a first position and a second position. The base and the spouttogether can form a substantially cylindrical shape in the firstposition and a substantially inverted J-shape in the second position.

The spout includes a plurality of segments operatively coupled togethersequentially, where each segment is articulable relative to the othersegments and relative to the base to move the spout between the firstand second positions. A first segment is rotatably coupled to the base,where each additional segment is rotatable relative to the first segmentand the base to articulate the spout between the first and secondpositions. The spout includes an end segment having the outlet. The endsegment can be detachable from an adjacent segment. A flexible hose canfluidly connect the outlet (e.g., of the end segment) to the base.

At least one embodiment disclosed herein relates to a faucet having abase and a spout. The base extends along a longitudinal axis and has afirst (e.g., bottom) end that is mountable to a support. The spoutincludes a first segment movably coupled to a second (e.g., top) end ofthe base, a last segment having an outlet for dispensing water, and aplurality of intervening segments provided between the first and lastsegments. Each intervening segment is movable relative to the firstsegment to move the last segment between a first position, in which theintervening segments align along the longitudinal axis, and a secondposition, in which the intervening segments align along an arcuate axisthat intersects the longitudinal axis.

Each intervening segment includes a hollow inner body and an outer body.Each inner body has a bore through which a water line can route, andeach inner body is rotatable coupled to the inner body of at least oneadjacent intervening segment. The outer body is fixedly coupled to theassociated inner body such that the outer body rotates with theassociated inner body, and the outer body defines a portion of anexterior shape of the faucet.

Each intervening segment includes a bearing that is disposed in theassociated bore between the associated inner body and the water line.Each bearing has an annular channel that receives an annular flange ofthe associated inner body to retain the bearing relative to the innerbody. The inner body includes two or more parts, such as a first partand a second part, where each part defines at least a portion of theannular flange. Each intervening segment can optionally include a magnetthat magnetically attracts another magnet (or ferromagnetic portion) ofan adjacent intervening segment in at least one position.

One or more cables can be used to control movement (e.g., articulation)of the segments. For example, a first cable can be routed through afirst channel of at least one intervening segment so that the firstcable rotates the at least one intervening segment in a first rotationaldirection about a pivot axis. Also for example, a second cable can berouted through a second channel of the at least one intervening segmentso that the second cable rotates the at least one intervening segment ina second rotational direction about the pivot axis, where the secondrotational direction is different than (e.g., opposite to) the firstrotational direction.

Turning to the Figures, FIGS. 1-8 illustrate an exemplary embodiment ofa faucet 100 that is mounted to a support in the form of a sink deck 90(e.g., rim, mounting surface, etc.) in FIGS. 1 and 2. A controller 95can be used to control the functionality (e.g., turn on/off fluid flow,temperature, etc.) of the faucet 100. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, thecontroller 95 is located remotely (e.g., separated from) the faucet 100.However, the controller 95 may be attached to (e.g., part of) the faucet100. The controller 95 can control a flow rate and/or a temperature ofwater being discharged from the faucet 100. The controller 95 can bemanually operable (e.g., a handle, knob, etc.) or automatically operable(e.g., including one or more than one sensor). According to at least oneembodiment, the controller 95 controls both the flow rate and thetemperature of water through the faucet, such as upon rotation. Initialrotation from an off position can turn on the flow of water through thefaucet, where continued rotation can increase the temperature of water.According to at least one embodiment, the faucet 100 is turned on andoff by one or more sensors (e.g., detecting presence of a person), andthe controller 95 controls temperature of the flow of water.

Also shown in FIGS. 1-8, the faucet 100 includes a base 101 and a spout102. The faucet 100 also includes a valve that controls water flowthrough the faucet. In an open position, water flows through the valveto an outlet of the faucet, and in a closed position, water is preventedfrom flowing to the outlet of the faucet by the valve. As shown in FIG.1, the valve 107 can be located within the faucet 100, such as withinthe base 10, or the valve 107′ can be located outside the faucet 100,such as below the support, depending on the application.

The base 101 of the faucet 100 is mountable to a support and is hollow,such as to house other elements/components of the faucet (e.g.,waterway, valve, etc.). As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the base 101 has asubstantially cylindrical shape extending along a longitudinal axis LAbetween a first end 111 (e.g., bottom end), which is mounted to the sinkdeck 90 of a sink 80, and a second end 112, which supports the spout102. The base 101 can be fixed (i.e., remain stationary relative to thesupport) or can be rotatable relative to the support once mounted to thesupport.

As shown best in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4-8, the spout 102 of the faucet 100 isarticulable (e.g., reconfigurable, rearrangeable, moveable, etc.)between a first (e.g., non-use) position and a second (e.g., use)position. FIG. 1 shows the faucet 100/spout 102 in an exemplary non-useposition with the spout 102 extending upward from the second end 112 ofthe base 101 and having a substantially cylindrical shape thatcomplements the substantially cylindrical shape of the base 101. Thus,in the non-use position shown, an outlet 120 of a first end 121 of thespout 102 is positioned opposite a mounting end/surface of the base 101.In FIG. 1, the outlet 120 in the first end 121 of the spout 102 facesupwardly away from the sink deck 90 to which the base 101 is mounted.FIG. 2 shows the faucet 100/spout 102 in a use position with the spout102 extending out over the sink 80 (beyond the sink deck 90) with theoutlet 120 positioned to direct water into a basin of the sink 80. Inthe use position shown, a second end 122 of the spout 102 is operativelycoupled to the second end 112 of the base 101, and the spout 102 has acurved (e.g., arcuate) shape that together with the base 101 forms aninverted J-shaped faucet 100. As shown in FIG. 9, a center line of thespout 102 is aligned along (e.g., coincident with) the longitudinal axisLA of the base 101 in the first position, whereas, as shown in FIG. 10,the spout 102 is aligned along an arcuate axis AA that intersects thelongitudinal axis LA in the second position. Thus, the spout articulatesto change the shape of the faucet, rather than merely moving the faucetwhile maintaining the same shape such as with swivel faucets. Notably,the spout 102 may form other shapes in the first and second positions.For example, the spout may be non-cylindrical in the first positionand/or the second position, which may or may not complement the base.

The spout 102 includes one or more segments 125 that providearticulation of the spout (relative to the base) between the first andsecond positions. As shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 4-8, the faucet 100includes nine segments 125 a-125 i. However, the faucet can include anynumber of segments. By way of non-limiting examples, the faucet 100shown in FIG. 3 includes eight segments 125 a-125 h, and the faucet 100shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 includes seven segments (labeled 1-7 in eachfigure). Notably, the number of segments of the spout may be tailored,such as to the overall size of the faucet, the amount (e.g., distance,etc.) of articulation desired, as well as other suitable designparameters.

The end segment of the spout 102 includes the outlet 120. As shown inFIGS. 1 and 2, the end segment 125 i having the outlet 120 articulates(e.g., rotate) relative to the adjacent segment 125 h, but the endsegment 125 i is not detachable from the adjacent segment 125 h. Asshown in FIG. 3, the end segment 125 h is detachable from the adjacentsegment 125 g to reposition the outlet 120 (and end segment) relative tothe adjacent segment 125 g. The detachable end segment 125 h may beconfigured to articulate (or not to articulate) relative to the adjacentsegment 125 g depending on the application. The faucet can have a fluidconduit (e.g., a flexible hose 108 as shown in FIGS. 3 and 23) tofluidly connect the outlet 120 to a fluid (e.g., water) supply, the base101, the valve 107, and/or another element (e.g., component) of thefaucet 100. The flexible hose 108, if provided, routes through a cavityor bore in the hollow base 101 and through the segments as discussedbelow.

FIGS. 16 and 17 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a segment 125. Asshown, the segment 125 includes a hollow outer body 127 and an innerbody 130 disposed within the outer body 127. The outer body 127 fixedlycouples to the inner body 130, such that the outer body 127 articulates(e.g., rotates) with the inner body 130. Each outer body 127 defines aportion of an exterior (e.g., an exterior shape) of the spout 102 andthe faucet 100. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the outer bodies of thesegments 125 a-125 i define the configuration (e.g., shape, aestheticfinish, etc.) of the spout 102. The outer body of each segment 125 a-125i can complement the outer bodies of the other segments and/or the base101. As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the hollow outer body 127 has asubstantially cylindrical shape with a bore 128 that receives the innerbody 130 therein. The outer body 127 can include one or more lockingfeatures 129 that couple the outer body 127 to the inner body 130. Forexample, each locking feature 129 of the outer body 127 may include atab (e.g., detent, arm, extension, etc.) that engages a correspondingnotch (e.g., recess, channel, etc.) on the inner body 130, oralternatively, each locking feature 129 may include a notch thatreceives a corresponding tab of the inner body 130.

The inner body 130 is disposed in the bore 128 of the associated outerbody 127 when assembled. Each inner body 130 operatively couples to aninner body of an adjacent segment 125 and/or the base 101 (e.g., for thefirst segment) in a way to provide articulation of the segment (e.g.,the inner body 130) relative to the adjacent segment(s) and/or base. Asshown in FIG. 16, the inner body 130 includes a first part 131 (e.g.,first half) and a second part 132 (e.g., second half) that togetherretain a bearing 140 between the first and second parts 131, 132 in acoupled position. Each of the first and second parts 131, 132 defines atleast part of an annular flange for receiving the bearing 140 to allowarticulation (e.g., rotation) between adjacent segments. As shown inFIG. 16, a first (e.g., upper) annular flange 133 is disposed at one endof the inner body 130 for receiving a first bearing 140, and a second(e.g., lower) annular flange 134 is disposed at another (e.g., opposite)end of the inner body 130 for receiving a second bearing 140 (FIG. 23).

As shown in FIG. 16, the bearing 140 includes an annular base 141, alongitudinal bore 142 extending through the base 141 to house and/orroute other elements/components of the faucet 100, and a flange 143extending radially outward around at least part (e.g., all) of the base141 at each end of the base 141. The bearing 140 is secured in place byreceiving one flange 133, 134 of the inner body 130 between the twoflanges 143 of the bearing 140. Thus, the flanges 143 and base 141 ofthe bearing 140 form a channel that receives one flange 133, 134 of theinner body 130 when the first and second parts 131, 132 are coupledtogether.

Also shown in FIG. 16, each part 131, 132 of each segment 125 includes amagnet 135 that magnetically attracts another magnet 135 (orferromagnetic element) of another part 131, 132 of an adjacentintervening segment 125 of the plurality of intervening segments 125.The magnets can attract in either the first position or the secondposition. Each magnet 135 can be embedded in a tab 136 (e.g.,projection) extending from the part as shown, or can be locatedelsewhere in the segment.

FIG. 17 illustrates one assembled segment 125 having one inner body 130disposed within (e.g., inside of) the bore 128 of one outer body 127.FIG. 18 illustrates two adjacent segments 125 a, 125 b operativelycoupled together, with the outer body 127 b of the second segment 125 babove (and prior to coupling to) the second inner body 130 b. The firstinner body 130 a is rotatably coupled to the second inner body 130 bthrough a bearing 140 (like the bearing 140 shown). Another bearing 140(shown) is disposed at the top of the second inner body 130 b forrotatably coupling to another segment (not shown).

FIGS. 19-21 illustrate two adjacent segments 125 a, 125 b with the outerbodies 127 a, 127 b removed to show an exemplary method of articulatingthe segments using wires. Each inner body 130 a, 130 b includes a firstchannel 151 for receiving a first wire 161 and a second channel 152 forreceiving a second wire 162. According to an exemplary embodiment, eachwire 161, 162 is braided Kevlar®. However, other types of wire can beused (e.g., employed). Each channel 151, 152 is recessed into the body130 to protect the wire. As shown, the first wire 161 moves the body 130(and segment 125) in a first direction corresponding to the water flowthrough the faucet being turned on, and the second wire 162 moves thebody 130 in a second direction, opposite to the first direction,corresponding to the water flow through the faucet being shut-off. Forexample, pulling the first wire 161 articulates (e.g., move, rotate,etc.) the segment 125 to its use position in response to the water flowbeing turned on in the faucet, and pulling the second wire 162articulates the segment 125 to its non-use position in response to thewater flow being turned off in the faucet. A portion of each wire (e.g.,an end) is coupled to a portion of the associated body 130 to move thesegment 125. As shown in FIG. 21, an end 163 of the first wire 161 istied (e.g., knotted) to the first part 131 of the body 130 to retain thewire 161. Similarly, the second wire 162 can be tied to the inner body130. Alternative ways (e.g., fasteners, adhesive, welding, etc.) may beemployed to retain each wire to the body.

FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate three adjacent segments 125 operativelycoupled together with the outer bodies 127 removed for clarity. Twofirst wires 161 are also shown, with one first wire 161 employed andcooperating with each of the lower two segments 125. During articulationof the faucet, pulling the first wires 161 simultaneously moves the twosegments 125 at the same time. The first wires 161 can be pulledsequentially to move the two segments 125 sequentially, or the firstwires 161 can be pulled in other suitable orders. As shown, portions ofthe wires 161, 162 route external to the associated inner body 130 andother portions route internal to the inner body 130. FIG. 23 shows thetwo parts of each inner body 130 separated to see the routing of thewires 161, 162 internal to the bodies 130, as well as the routing of thehose 108 within the bodies 130 (i.e., through the bores thereof).

FIGS. 24-28 illustrate movement of a top segment 125 a relative to anadjacent bottom segment 125 b through the wires 161, 162. FIG. 24 showsthe two segments 125 a, 125 b in a non-use position (e.g., an initialposition with zero degrees of rotation between the top segment 125 a andthe bottom segment 125 b). FIG. 25 shows the top segment 125 a after arotation of thirty degrees (30°) relative to the bottom segment 125 b bypulling on the first wire 161 by a first distance in a first direction,which in turn pulls the second wire 162 in a second opposite directionby the first distance. FIG. 26 shows the top segment 125 a after arotation of sixty degrees (60°) relative to the bottom segment 125 b bypulling on the first wire 161 by a second distance in the firstdirection, which in turn pulls the second wire 162 in the seconddirection by the second distance. FIG. 27 shows the top segment 125 aafter a rotation of 90 degrees (90°) relative to the bottom segment 125b by pulling the first wire 161 by a third distance in the firstdirection, which in turn pulls the second wire 162 in the seconddirection by the third distance. FIG. 28 shows the top segment 125 aafter a rotation of 180 degrees (180°) relative to the bottom segment125 b by pulling the first wire 161 by a total distance (Dtotal) in thefirst direction, which in turn pulls the second wire 162 by the totaldistance in the second direction.

The faucet 100 includes an actuator that controls articulation of theone or more segments 125 of the spout 102. The actuator can be amechanical actuator, an electro-mechanical actuator, a fluid actuator,or other suitable actuator. A mechanical actuator can manuallyarticulate the spout 102 by moving the one or more segments 125 at thesame time or at different times (e.g., sequentially, random). By way ofexample, the mechanical actuator can include a knob, a lever, a handle,or other suitable element that articulates the segments of the faucet100 upon actuation (e.g., movement) of the mechanical actuator. Also forexample, the spout 102 can be configured to be manually articulated by auser whom moves the spout from the first position to the second positionsuch as by moving the spout itself.

FIGS. 11-15 illustrate an example of a manual actuator 200 made toconceptually show articulation of the segments 125 of a fabricatedfaucet 100. The actuator 200 includes a frame 201, a plurality of firstarms 202 associated with the first wires 161, and a plurality of secondarms 203 associated with the second wires 162. One first arm 202 isprovided for each first wire 161, and each first arm 202 is pivotallycoupled to the frame 201 at a pivot end and is coupled to a portion(e.g., end) of the associated first wire 161 at (or near) the oppositeend. Similarly, one second arm 203 is provided for each second wire 162,and each second arm 203 is pivotally coupled to the frame 201 at a pivotend and is coupled to a portion of the associated second wire 162 at (ornear) the opposite end. A pulley or pulley system can be employed witheach of the arm 202, 203 to influence the motion of the wire based onthe rotation of the arm 202, 203. Notably, size of the manual actuator200 relative to the faucet 100 is not limiting, as size of the manualactuator 200 shown can be reduced (it was constructed for ease ofactuation).

The faucet 100 can include an electro-mechanical actuator thatautomatically articulates the spout 102. The electro-mechanical actuatorincludes one or more motors (e.g., stepper motors) configured to pullthe wires 161, 162 between the use and non-use positions. A gearingsystem (e.g., gear reduction system) can be employed to control movementof the wires 161, 162 by the one or more motors.

The plurality of segments 125 of the spout 102 can be configured toarticulate (e.g., rotate) in various ways. For example, the plurality ofsegments 125 can be configured to rotate sequentially in consecutiveorder, such as starting with the first segment 125 a and ending with anend (e.g., last) segment (e.g., segment 125 i in FIG. 1, segment 125 hin FIG. 3, segment 7 in FIG. 9, etc.) of the plurality of segments 125.With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the sequence of articulation would besegment 125 a, then segment 125 b, then segment 125 c, then segment 125d, then segment 125 e, then segment 125 f, then segment 125 g, thensegment 125 h, and then segment 125 i. For this method of articulation,the movement of the segments can overlap (e.g., the second segment 125 bcan begin articulating after the first segment 125 a begins articulatingbut before the first segment 125 a is finished articulating) as shown inFIG. 29, or the segments can move one at a time (e.g., the secondsegment 125 b begins articulating only after the first segment 125 a isfinished articulating, etc.). The segments can be configured toarticulate sequentially starting with a different segment, such asstarting with an end segment and sequencing rearward (e.g., descending)or forward (e.g., ascending), or may start sequencing with any segmentand move rearward or forward.

Also for example, the plurality of segments 125 can articulatesubstantially simultaneously to move the faucet 100 and the outlet 120thereof between the first and the second positions. Thus, each segmentof the plurality of segments 125 can begin articulating approximately atthe same time.

Also for example, the plurality of segments 125 can articulate randomlyto move the faucet 100 and the outlet 120 thereof between the first andthe second positions. The articulation can be completely random, wherethe sequence of articulation of the segments may be different eachsuccessive articulation. The faucet 100 may include a controller thatcontrols the random articulation of the segments. The randomarticulation can be repeatable randomness, where the sequence is thesame from each articulation to the subsequent articulation, but theorder that the segments articulate is not in consecutive order orsimultaneous order.

Also for example, each segment of the plurality of segments 125 can berotated by a force created by a flow of water through the faucet (e.g.,to the outlet). The force can be generated by water that flows towardthe outlet of the faucet (e.g., through the faucet). In this way, watercan route into a first segment, which then rotates by the force of waterfrom a first position to a second position; then water flowing from thefirst segment to a second segment can rotate the second segment from afirst position to a second position, and so forth sequentially throughall of the segments.

FIG. 29 shows an exemplary sequence of actuation for a faucet havingseven segments (segments 1-7). As shown, when the faucet is in a firstmode of operation (e.g., an on mode where water flows to the outlet),segment 1 is the first to begin articulating, then segment 2, thensegment 3 and so forth ending with segment 7, with each subsequentsegment overlapping with the prior segment (i.e., the next segment inthe sequence begins articulating before the prior segment is fullyarticulated). FIG. 29 also shows that when the faucet goes from the onmode of operation to a second mode of operation (e.g., an off mode wherewater ceases to flow to the outlet), the segments articulate in thereverse order with segment 7 articulating first, then segment 6, thensegment 5 and so forth ending with segment 1. Again, articulation ofeach segment overlaps with the articulation of the prior segment. Alsoshown in FIG. 29, the time from start to finish going from “on mode” to“off mode” is approximately two to four seconds (˜2-4 s), while the timefrom start to finish going from “off mode” to “on mode” is approximatelyone to two seconds (˜1-2 s). According to other embodiments, these timescan be reversed or changed, such as to tailor these times.

FIG. 30 illustrates an additional example of flexible couplings that canbe employed in connecting together adjacent segments and/or segment(s)to the base, such as the segments 125 of the faucet 100. The illustratedcoupling 210 includes two bushings 211, 212 coupled to a webbing 213(e.g., a flexible webbing, a rigid webbing) to allow for rotation of afirst shaft 215 engaging (e.g., received by) the first bushing 211relative to a second shaft 216 engaging the second bushing 212.

FIGS. 34-36 illustrate additional examples of flexible couplings thatcan be used with the faucets disclosed herein. FIG. 34 shows a coupling230 including a first bushing end 231, a second bushing end 232, and aflexible hollow conduit 233 interconnecting the first and second bushingends 231, 232. The bushing ends 231, 232, as shown, are rotatablerelative to one another. However, according to other embodiments, theends 231, 232 can be rotatably fixed relative to one another. Theconduit 233 can be manipulated (e.g., bent, moved, compressed, extended,etc.) such as to reposition the ends 231, 232 relative to one another.FIG. 35 shows a coupling 250 having a sleeve shape and including a firstbushing end 251, a second bushing end 252, and a non-flexible or lessflexible hollow section 253 connecting the first and second bushing ends251, 252 together. The ends 251, 252 can be rotatable or rotatably fixedrelative to one another, and each end 251, 252 includes a bore, whichcan receive a post, shaft, pipe or similar member, such as to transmitrotation. One or more set screws 254 can be used to secure a post,shaft, pipe or similar member to an end 251, 252, such as to transmitrotation. FIG. 36 shows a coupling 270 that includes a first end 271, asecond end 272, and a flexible hollow expandable corrugated sleeve 273interconnecting the first and second ends 271, 272, such that the ends271, 272 can flex relative to one another. That is, the sleeve 273 isexpandable and at least somewhat flexible in an expanded position sothat the ends 271, 272 are repositionable relative to one another.

FIG. 31 illustrates another faucet 400 having a plurality of segments421-428 having different configurations (e.g., size, shape, etc.)relative to one another. The faucet 400 can articulate into differentshapes between or in its various modes of operation, which do not haveto include the more traditional J-shape. The segments 421-428 allow theshape of the faucet 400 to be tailored.

FIGS. 32 and 33 illustrate another faucet 500 having a base 501, whichis shown mounting to the sink deck 90, and a spout 502 that operativelycouples to the base 501. The spout 502 includes a plurality ofarticulating segments. As shown, the spout 502 has seven segments521-527 that articulate relative to the base 501 and to one another. Thesegments 521-527 are arranged sequentially, with the first segment 521coupled to the base 501, the second segment coupled to the first segment521, the third segment 523 coupled to the second segment 522 and soforth. The segments 521-527 can have the same shape or different shapes.It is noted that the number and shape of the segments can producefaucets having any desired shape upon articulation of the segments.

As utilized herein, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “substantially”,and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony withthe common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art towhich the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. It should beunderstood by those of skill in the art who review this disclosure thatthese terms are intended to allow a description of certain featuresdescribed and claimed without restricting the scope of these features tothe precise numerical ranges provided. Accordingly, these terms shouldbe interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequentialmodifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimedare considered to be within the scope of the invention as recited in theappended claims.

The terms “coupled,” “connected,” and the like, as used herein, mean thejoining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Suchjoining may be stationary (e.g., permanent) or moveable (e.g., removableor releasable). Such joining may be achieved with the two members or thetwo members and any additional intermediate members being integrallyformed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two membersor the two members and any additional intermediate members beingattached to one another.

References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., “top,” “bottom,”“above,” “below,” etc.) are merely used to describe the orientation ofvarious elements in the FIGURES. It should be noted that the orientationof various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments,and that such variations are intended to be encompassed by the presentdisclosure.

The construction and arrangement of the elements of the faucets as shownin the exemplary embodiments are illustrative only. Although only a fewembodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail,those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readilyappreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations insizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the variouselements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials,colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novelteachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example,elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple partsor elements, the position of elements may be reversed or otherwisevaried, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions maybe altered or varied.

Additionally, the word “exemplary” is used to mean serving as anexample, instance, or illustration. Any embodiment or design describedherein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred oradvantageous over other embodiments or designs (and such term is notintended to connote that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinaryor superlative examples). Rather, use of the word “exemplary” isintended to present concepts in a concrete manner. Accordingly, all suchmodifications are intended to be included within the scope of thepresent disclosure. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, andomissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, andarrangement of the preferred and other exemplary embodiments withoutdeparting from the scope of the appended claims.

Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may also bemade in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the variousexemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the presentinvention. For example, any element (e.g., base, spout, segment, valve,etc.) disclosed in one embodiment may be incorporated or utilized withany other embodiment disclosed herein. Also, for example, the order orsequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequencedaccording to alternative embodiments. Any means-plus-function clause isintended to cover the structures described herein as performing therecited function and not only structural equivalents but also equivalentstructures. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissionsmay be made in the design, operating configuration, and arrangement ofthe preferred and other exemplary embodiments without departing from thescope of the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A faucet comprising: a base configured to mount to a support; and an articulable spout comprising: an outlet for dispensing water; and a plurality of segments operatively coupled together sequentially, wherein a first segment of the plurality of segments is rotatably coupled to the base; and a valve operable in an open position and a closed position to control a flow of water to the outlet; wherein the plurality of segments are rotatable relative to one another and to the base to move the outlet between a first position, in which the valve is in the closed position, and a second position, in which the valve is in the open position.
 2. The faucet of claim 1, wherein the plurality of segments rotate sequentially starting with the first segment and ending with an end segment of the plurality of segments, and wherein the end segment includes the outlet.
 3. The faucet of claim 1, wherein the plurality of segments rotate randomly to move the outlet between the first and the second positions.
 4. The faucet of claim 1, wherein the plurality of segments rotate substantially simultaneously to move the outlet between the first and the second positions.
 5. The faucet of claim 1, further comprising an actuator that rotates each segment of the plurality of segments, the actuator comprising: a motor; and a cable operatively coupled to the motor and to the associated segment of the plurality of segments such that the motor can rotate the associated segment through the cable.
 6. The faucet of claim 5, wherein the actuator comprises a plurality of cables operatively coupled to the motor, with at least one cable of the plurality of cables associated with one segment of the plurality of segments to rotate the associated segment through the at least one cable.
 7. The faucet of claim 1, wherein each segment of the plurality of segments is rotated by a force created by the flow of water to the outlet.
 8. The faucet of claim 1, further comprising a universal joint rotatably coupling at least one pair of adjacent segments of the plurality of segments.
 9. The faucet of claim 1, wherein the plurality of segments form a substantially cylindrical shaped spout when the outlet is in the first position, and wherein the plurality of segments form a non-cylindrical shape spout when the outlet is in the second position.
 10. The faucet of claim 1, wherein the plurality of segments form an arcuate shaped spout when the spout is in the second position such that the base and the spout together have a substantially inverted J-shape, and wherein the plurality of segments form a shape that is different than the arcuate shape spout when the outlet is in the first position.
 11. A faucet comprising: a stationary base having a first end, which is mountable to a support; and a spout operatively coupled to a second end of the base, wherein the spout has an outlet for dispensing water and the spout is articulable relative to the base between a first position and a second position; wherein in the first position, the base and the spout together have a substantially cylindrical shape; and wherein in the second position, the base and the spout together have a substantially inverted J-shape.
 12. The faucet of claim 11, wherein the spout comprises a plurality of segments operatively coupled together sequentially, and wherein each segment of the plurality of segments is articulable relative to the other segments of the plurality of segments and relative to the base to move the spout between the first and second positions.
 13. The faucet of claim 12, wherein a first segment of the plurality of segments is rotatably coupled to the base, and wherein each additional segment of the plurality of segments is rotatable relative to the first segment and the base to move the spout between the first and second positions.
 14. The faucet of claim 13, wherein the spout further comprises an end segment having the outlet, wherein the end segment is detachable from an adjacent segment of the plurality of segments, and wherein a flexible hose fluidly connects the outlet of the end segment to the base.
 15. The faucet of claim 13, wherein the plurality of segments comprises an end segment having the outlet, and wherein the end segment is rotatably coupled to an adjacent segment of the plurality of segments.
 16. A faucet comprising: a base extending along a longitudinal axis and having a first end that is configured to mount to a support; and a spout comprising: a first segment movably coupled to a second end of the base; a last segment having an outlet for dispensing water; and a plurality of intervening segments provided between the first segment and the last segment, wherein each of the plurality of intervening segments is movable relative to the first segment to move the last segment between a first position, in which each segment of the plurality of intervening segments is aligned along the longitudinal axis, and a second position, in which each segment of the plurality of intervening segments is aligned along an arcuate axis.
 17. The faucet of claim 16, wherein each segment of the plurality of intervening segments comprises: a hollow inner body defining a bore through which a water line is configured to route, each inner body being configured to rotatably couple to the inner body of at least one adjacent intervening segment of the plurality of intervening segments; and an outer body fixedly coupled to the associated inner body such that the outer body rotates with the associated inner body, the outer body defining a portion of an exterior shape of the faucet.
 18. The faucet of claim 17, wherein each segment of the plurality of intervening segments further comprises a bearing disposed in the associated bore between the associated inner body and the water line, and wherein each bearing has an annular channel that receives an annular flange of the associated inner body to retain the bearing relative to the inner body.
 19. The faucet of claim 18, wherein the inner body comprises a first part and a second part, each of the first and second parts defines at least part of the annular flange, each segment of the plurality of intervening segments further comprises a magnet that is configured to magnetically attract another magnet of an adjacent intervening segment of the plurality of intervening segments in at least one of the first and second positions, and the arcuate axis that intersects the longitudinal axis.
 20. The faucet of claim 18, further comprising: a first cable configured to route through a first channel of at least one intervening segment of the plurality of intervening segments; and a second cable configured to route through a second channel of the at least one intervening segment of the plurality of intervening segments; wherein the first cable is configured to rotate the at least one intervening segment in a first rotational direction about a pivot axis, the second cable is configured to rotate the at least one intervening segment in a second rotational direction about the pivot axis, and the second rotational direction is opposite the first rotational direction. 